What must a vessel that is required to keep out of the way do?

• A. Change course to starboard to pass ahead
• B. Take positive early action and avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel
• C. Maintain speed and pass behind the other vessel
• D. Signal with whistle and wait for instructions

Answer: (B)

The essential idea is that the vessel obligated to keep out of the way must take early, decisive action to stay well clear and avoid crossing in front of the other vessel. This means adjusting your course and/or speed promptly so you do not enter the other vessel’s path ahead of it, rather than waiting or maintaining your current maneuver.

So the correct approach is to take positive early action to avoid crossing ahead, typically by altering course (often to starboard) and/or reducing speed to ensure a safe passing distance. Waiting for instructions or simply maintaining speed while attempting to pass ahead would not meet the obligation to keep out of the way.